Parashat Behar: Reflections and Insights

Introduction

Parashat Behar, located in Sefer Vayikra, primarily discusses the halachot of the Shemittah (שמיטה) year and the Yovel (יובל) year. These halachot pertain to the sabbatical year and the jubilee year, during which the land must rest and avadim (slaves) are freed. This week, we will explore the deeper significance of these mitzvot as understood through the lens of Chassidus.

Summary of the Parasha

Parashat Behar introduces the mitzvah of Shemittah, where every seventh year the land of Eretz Yisrael must lie fallow, and agricultural activity is forbidden. Following seven cycles of Shemittah years, the fiftieth year is Yovel, when not only does the land rest, but all avadim are freed, and ancestral properties are returned to their original owners. The parasha also includes halachot on the geulah (redemption) of land, fair treatment of others, and the issur (prohibition) of ribit (charging interest).

Chassidic Insights

The concept of Shemittah is deeply rooted in the idea of recognizing Hashem's malchut (sovereignty) over the land and our lives. The Rebbe explains that Shemittah teaches us about "bitachon" (ביטחון), complete trust in Hashem. By refraining from working the land, we acknowledge that our parnasah (sustenance) comes from Hashem, not from our own efforts.

The Yovel year, which emphasizes freedom and returning to one's roots, is seen in Chassidus as a time for spiritual renewal and "teshuvah" (תשובה). The Alter Rebbe in Tanya describes the Yovel as a time when we can return to our spiritual source and rectify our past actions. It represents a higher level of geulah (liberation), not just physically but spiritually as well.

Personal Reflection

[This section will be filled in by the user with personal insights and experiences related to the teachings and themes of the parasha.]

Practical Application

To internalize the lessons of Parashat Behar, one practical step is to cultivate a sense of "bitachon" in our daily lives. This can be achieved by setting aside time for tefillah (prayer) and limud Torah (study), trusting that our needs will be met through Hashem's brachot (blessings).

In the spirit of Yovel, we can focus on personal and communal acts of "teshuvah." This might involve seeking mechilah (forgiveness) from others, making amends, and recommitting to our spiritual goals. Additionally, we can engage in acts of chesed (kindness) and ensure fair treatment of those around us, especially in financial dealings, aligning with the Torah’s issur of ribit.

Questions for Further Study

• How can the principles of Shemittah and Yovel be applied to our lives outside of Eretz Yisrael?
• What are practical ways to strengthen our "bitachon" in Hashem in times of uncertainty?
• How can we create a personal "Yovel" experience for spiritual renewal in our daily lives?

Conclusion

Parashat Behar provides profound lessons on bitachon in Hashem and the importance of spiritual and physical freedom. By observing these mitzvot and embracing their deeper meanings, we can foster a stronger connection to Hashem and enhance our spiritual growth. May we all merit to live with greater "bitachon" and experience true freedom and renewal in our lives.